Side-by-side reference

Bitcoin vs Optimism

A practical, data-led overview of how these two networks differ in architecture, throughput, and execution.

Bitcoin · BTC
Optimism · OP
Reference snapshot · July 2026

Quick comparison

Pick the metric that matters to you

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Optimism lists the higher published transaction capacity.

Bitcoin5 TPS

Optimism4,000 TPSHigher reference value

This is a directional comparison of the reference data below, not investment or performance advice.

Reference table

The numbers at a glance

Values are useful for orientation; they do not measure live network performance.

Metric	Bitcoin	Optimism
Layer	L1	L2
Native token	BTC	OP
Published max TPS	5	4,000
Block time	600s	2s
Average transaction fee	$5.10	$0.14
Consensus	PoW	Optimistic rollup
Execution	Limited	EVM
Smart contracts	No	Yes
Staking rewards	0%	—

Architecture and execution

Bitcoin is listed as a Layer 1 network and does not list smart-contract support. Optimism is listed as a Layer 2 network and is EVM-compatible.

Their consensus entries also differ: Bitcoin lists PoW, while Optimism lists Optimistic rollup. That distinction describes how each network is designed; it is not a standalone quality score.

Capacity and confirmation cadence

Optimism lists the higher published capacity: 4,000 TPS.

Optimism lists the shorter block time: 2s.

Published capacity and block-time figures are useful reference points, but they are not equivalent to observed throughput, finality, or application-specific performance. Evaluate the workload, settlement requirements, and tooling before drawing a conclusion.

Costs and participation

Optimism lists the lower reference fee: $0.14.

Bitcoin lists a 0% staking-reward rate in this reference dataset. Optimism has no staking-reward rate in this reference dataset.

Fees and reward rates can change with network conditions and policy. Treat the entries here as a comparable snapshot, not as live pricing or a return forecast.

How to assess the trade-off

Start with execution compatibility: Bitcoin is not EVM-compatible, while Optimism is.
Then compare the reference values that matter to the application: capacity, block time, and transaction fee.
Finally, review each network’s documentation, security model, ecosystem, and current operating conditions before deploying capital or production software.

FAQ

Common questions

Which network has the higher published TPS?

Optimism lists the higher published capacity: 4,000 TPS.

Which network has the lower reference fee?

Optimism has the lower reference fee in this dataset.